BELLE CHASSE, LA — Benny Rousselle, Plaquemines Parish councilman for District 5, has announced his candidacy for Plaquemines Parish President.
“I was greatly saddened by the passing of our Parish President Amos Cormier, which has precipitated this unexpected election,” Rousselle said. “The residents of Plaquemines Parish are now faced with an important election that will greatly affect the future of our parish. Tough problems will require tough decisions…that is why I decided to run.”
As Parish President, Rousselle said he headed the parish's recovery efforts during hurricanes Katrina and Rita. He said he aggressively worked with other officials and government agencies to get the resources needed to remove the storm debris and restore power and infrastructure so that the parish could begin its recovery sooner.
"The price of oil has drastically effected the state and parish's revenues, and while our economy shows signs of improvement it will require strong leadership and responsible financial management to get us through this period,” Rousselle said. “As a councilman, I am aware of the issues we are facing, and as a former parish president during Katrina, I have demonstrated the ability to serve during tough times.”
Rousselle graduated from Belle Chasse High School and then served in the U.S. Merchant Marines. Upon his return, he attended the University of New Orleans and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. He then served the people of Plaquemines Parish as councilman, 1987-1994; state representative, 1996-1999; and parish president, 1999-2006. Rousselle has also served as intergovernmental affairs coordinator for the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources.
